The traditional Japanese kimono lacked pockets. Netsuke were devised as a means to hang pouches, thus enabling the wearer to carry a number of personal items. A practical invention that filled a very specific need over a period of 300 years, netsuke evolved into a unique form of miniature sculpture. Subjects varied widely, including deities, legendary heroes and animals.These are museum quality reproductions of historic hand carved netsuke.The originals were made of ivory or wood. Ours are made from a polymer resin that elephants & walruses everywhere prefer. They range from about two to three inches in height.

If Japanese Gardening inspires, you'll be interested in our very large selection of Japanese gardening books and Japanese gardening tools, including the very best Japanese garden tools in the world (Okatsune tools!).

If you're interested in Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging) we offer a huge selection of Kenzans (flower arranging frogs or pins) and some Ikebana books and high quality Ikebana tools from Japan.